UN Observes International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM
In recent years, world media has focused increased attention on the problem of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), a practice that intentionally alters or injures female genital organs for non-medical reasons, and exposes girls and women to needless pain and serious health risks. FGM/C is mostly performed on girls between infancy and age 15, and is internationally recognized as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. The U.N. has set 2015 as a target date for eliminating the practice, and the U.N. this year designated February 6 as the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation. While FGM/C is prevalent in many developing countries, it affects the lives of 3 million girls annually in Africa alone. According to the World Health Organization there is no health benefit to FGM/C. In the short term it can cause severe pain, shock, bleeding, and tetanus, and in the longer term it can lead to cysts, recurring bladder infections, infertility, and increased risk of complications in childbirth.
